As the oldest most iconic and suburb in Hervey Bay, Pialba quickly became the commercial hub of the coastal city. Originally connected to Maryborough by rail in 1896, it was soon a small but thriving seaside resort.

The central business district now makes up the majority of Pialba with the remaining area being a residential and beach side neighbourhood. The Pialba foreshore boasts high rise apartments and plenty of holiday rental units. The CBD has at its centre, Hervey Bay RSL, the Cultural Center, Art Gallery, the University of Southern Queensland, State and Local Government Departments and major shopping centers located along Main Street. Situated at the seafront end of Main Street is the Pialba Caravan Park, the Whale Tail Water Park and the Hervey Bay Seafront Oval.

The eastern end of Main Street (away from the beach) is home to Stockland Shopping Centre and the Boat Harbour Drive shopping complexes of various types and sizes. Other Facilities include Hervey Bay Golf & Country Club, Pialba Primary and Hervey Bay State High Schools.